Artisanal olive oil store opens

Olive oil and balsamic vinegar is stored in traditional Italian fustis from which it can be sampled and later bottled. (Photo by Christian Sorrell)

The Olive Mill, a small batch and artisanal olive oil and balsamic vinegar store, is now open for business at the intersection of Main Street and Range Line Road in Carmel’s Arts & Design District.

With successful locations in Geneva, Ill., and Saugatuck, Mich., The Olive Mill is now bringing its internationally sourced, gourmet oils and vinegars to Carmel. The store focuses on customer sampling and a passion for both olive oil and balsamic vinegar. During the coming week, the store will reach its product capacity, featuring a changing slate of more than 20 vinegars and 24 olive oils.

The store’s general manager, Stephen Hannah, recently relocated to Indianapolis to take over operations of the new location. During the last several years, he has worked for Olive Mill owners Debbie and Ed O’Connell at both the Saugatuck and Geneva locations.

Hannah sources the store’s oil and vinegars from a wide array of both farmers and importers including some in Italy, Spain, Tunisia, Greece and California.

“If you can create great wine, you can create great olive oil,” Hannah said. “The first time in, many people may know very little about the use of our oils. When compared to standard cooking oil or vinegar, it’s a different product for a different use.”

Oils and vinegars range in price from $14 to $19.50 for a 375 ml bottle depending on the type and flavor. Customers receive a 15-percent discount on 750 ml bottles as well as a 10-percent discount for bringing in formerly purchased bottles for refill.

The Olive Mill

What: A purveyor of small batch and artisanal extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegars from around the world. Additionally, the Olive Mill carries gourmet spices, gifts, gift baskets and recipes. Tasting is encouraging.

When: Now open for “preview” hours with a grand opening Saturday evening from 5 to 10 p.m. during the Art & Design District’s Second Saturday Gallery Walk.